Nederlandse Kooikerhondje

Characteristics

Size

Grooming Needs

Exercise Needs

Good With Dogs

Watchdog Ability

History

Nederlandse Kooikerhondje is an old Dutch breed. Today this dog is more like a pet than a hunting dog, but could chase household pests. The breed has been known since the 17th and 18th centuries and some specimens can be seen in paintings by the Dutch artist Jan Steen and Rembrandt.

These dogs were formerly used for hunting waterfowl, especially ducks. In the early 20th century the breed was extinct, but Baroness van Hardenbroek van Ammerstol save began to develop it in 1942 after founding the famous bitch Tommy, which is considered the ancestor of all modern Kooikers. The breed was officially recognized in 1971

It has gained popularity very quickly. Today, except in Scandinavia, puppies for sale can be found in the US and Canada.

Physical characteristics

Nederlandse Kooikerhondje is a durable hunting dog with a strong flair. It has a strong physique, its head is set high and is proportional to the body. The dog's eyes are dark brown almond-shaped. The ears are moderately large, hanging and close fitting to the cheeks, covered with long hair. The neck is straight and muscular, the limbs are dry and muscular, the paws are small and compact. The coat on the body is medium long, straight, slightly wavy, and its color is white with ginger or orange spots.

Nederlandse Kooikerhondje is 35-40 cm high and weighs an average 10 kg.

This dog is good in different sports - obedience, agility and flyball, and even dog-dancing. It is durable and is not afraid of cold or wet weather.

Character and behavior

This is a lively, energetic and cheerful dog. It is smart and clever, strongly attached to its owners as it loves to be with the master - hunting or just walking.

It quickly adapts to any home and according to the circumstances can be quiet and unobtrusive, or playful and energetic. It never barks for no reason.

Training and education

Nederlandse Kooikerhondje is easily amenable to training. It gladly plays with a ball, even in the water, loves long walks and can be trained even from an inexperienced owner. The dog feels well both in the countryside and in the city.

Training and socialization should start from the age of three months. Socialization it’s very important because the dog will feel safe and will trust you and you will have full confidence in it. In fact, the most important is the personal example of the owner. It is advised to start dog school (puppy class), when your pet is 9-10 weeks old and after the appropriate vaccination.

Nederlandse Kooikerhondje is a sensitive and intelligent dog that does not need shouting and excessive rigidity in training.

Grooming and care

The coat should be cleaned and brushed daily with a sharp brush, otherwise you will have hair all over your furniture.

Regular walks, games and swimming are a must.

Health problems

The Nederlandse Kooikerhondje is a very healthy dog. There aren't any records of hereditary diseases.

The average life expectancy is 13 - 14 years.

Children and other pets

With good socialization, the dog will get along perfectly with children, other pets, and even cats, especially if they grew up together.

Interesting facts

Besides the Dutch paintings, the ancestors of the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje were mentioned in some texts. For example, the historian Pieter Hooft wrote in his book "Dutch Stories" (Neederlandsche Histoorien), that this little dog saved the life of King Willem van Oranje (William of Orange) in 1572 by scratching hard on the canvas of his tent to wake him in time and thus avoid the attack of the Spaniards.